PNC Brownbag Series Looks at Diversity

Purdue University North Central will present a Brownbag Series in the coming months, with PNC faculty, staff and community members leading programs that center on the topic of "diversity."

The seminars will vary in style and subject, but all will share the intent of presenting topics and issues that can contribute to the development of a tolerant, inclusive campus and community cultural practices. Some presenters will feature short film clips or interactive pieces that will stimulate conversation and discussion; others will present ideas for open dialogue and sharing of views and experiences.

The Brownbag Series is coordinated by Bob Mellin, continuing lecturer of English.

The seminars will be presented from noon to 1 p.m. They are free and open to the public and guests may bring their lunch. Varying opinions are welcome.

Sept. 28 in Library-Student-Faculty Building Room 144, Dr. Kenneth Kincaid, assistant professor of History, will present "2010 Census and What It Means for Northwest Indiana." He will examine the 2010 Census results for Northwest Indiana, noting demographic trends with respect to race and ethnicity. In addition, the presentation will explore initiatives that organizations and institutions are undertaking or have undertaken in order to be more responsive to the new residents of Northwest Indiana.

Oct. 12 in the Library-Student-Faculty Building Room 170A, located just off the PNC cafeteria, PNC student Vince Emanuele, co-host of radio show "Veterans Unplugged" will present "Veteran's Unplugged-Live." A veteran of the Iraq War, Emanuele will discuss his work as co-host of "Veterans Unplugged." He regularly interviews community activists, authors, organizers and citizens, including Derrick Jensen, Cindy Sheehan, Dahr Jamail, Michael Parenti, Rev. Jesse Jackson, Paul Street, Ward Churchill and Noam Chomsky. Showcasing the work of local artistic initiatives and music scene were some of the first objectives of the program. Nationally known touring and recording band, "Chester Brown," provides the introductory music for "Veterans Unplugged."

Nov. 9 in Library-Student-Faculty Building Room 170A, Dr. Assen Kokalov, assistant professor of Spanish, will talk about "Representations of Diversity in Contemporary Latin American Film." He will discuss how Latin American cinematography is confronting the thorny issues related to racial, gender and social conflicts that are shaking the foundations of many countries in the region. Economic crises and the vestiges of 20th century dictatorships affect attitudes toward diversity, frequently exposing unsettled struggles among different racial, social and gender groups. He will focus on the films, "Bolivia" and "XXY" which showcase how Latin American directors are exposing, tackling and challenging such conflicts through their work.

Further information about the series can be obtained by contacting Mellin at 219.785.5200, ext. 5215 or bmellin@pnc.edu or Kincaid at ext. 5244 or kkincaid@pnc.edu. Persons with disabilities needing accommodations may contact either Mellin or Kincaid.